History

The Maine Coon is the official Maine State cat. A (biologically impossible) myth is that the breed resulted from the mating of local cats and the racoon. Probably due to the Maine Coons bushy tail and the common racoon like brown tabby colouration. However, it is more likely that the breed originated from matings between the local cats and overseas longhairs who arrived on the coast in New England ships. Through natural selection the cats that survived were large, rugged with a hardy constitution and a dense water-resistant coat that enabled them to withstand the harsh climate. The breed was well established by the 19th century but nearly faced extinction with the arrival of the exotic and popular Persian. However, today the Maine Coon is now one of America's most popular breeds. 

Description

The Maine Coon is a huge, broad chested cat with a long and muscular, rectangular body. The head is slightly longer than it is wide with a square muzzle and a firm chin that lines up with the nose and upper lip. The large ears are wide at the base and moderately pointed. They are heavily furred on the inside and the shaggy tips have a lynx like, tufted appearance. The eyes are very distinctive being large, round and set at a slightly oblique angle. The feet are large, round and also tufted like little snow shoes. The tail should be at least as long as the torso.

The Maine Coon comes in a huge variety of colours and patterns. In fact the only patterns that are not allowed by most standards are those indicating hybridisation - eg. chocolate, lavender, pointed or ticked. Brown tabby is the most colour and pattern of this breed.

Size

Large (males may weigh up to 9kg!) 

Coat

The coat is heavy and shaggy with longer areas on the stomach and britches. There is a ruff on the front of the cat and a long luxurious tail which the cat can wrap around herself when she curls up to sleep. The fur is silky or glossy, heavy and is water resistant. 

Temperament

Often described as dog like, the Maine Coon loves to play and retrieve objects. Although they are very affectionate cats, they are not needy and are happy to have some independence. This breed likes company but prefers to be nearby rather than planted on your lap. They are a relaxed and easy-going cat that adapts well to different living situations. They rarely meow but have a distinctive chirping trill noise which they use for communication. They are intelligent, loyal, affectionate and not above playing the clown to amuse you and themselves. 

Health

Regular grooming will help keep the coat in good condition. This breed is a naturally robust and healthy breed that does not need special care to thrive. 

Possible Genetic Disorders

Inherited health problems affecting some lines of Maine Coon can include:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cardiomyopathy (hypertrophic)
  • Gingivitis-periodontis feline juvenile onset

Best Suited

  • Because of their size and confidence, the Maine Coon is the ideal cat breed to share the family home with dogs.
  • They do need an owner that is willing to groom their coat once or twice a week and be willing to keep them in top condition.
  • Like all cats, they should be kept inside. Maine Coons have adapted to be a very efficient predator and as such the local wildlife should be protected from them.